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The economy is in the toilet, and the world’s automakers are feeling the effects, but as the old saying goes, the (SEMA) show must go on. Despite the torrent of bad news lately, most of the major automotive players are still bringing a respectable – and in some cases, significant – amount of sheetmetal to the annual bonanza of aftermarket parts and tricked out rides that is the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association Show in Las Vegas.

The 2008 SEMA show kicks off on election day, Tuesday November 4, and runs until Friday November 7. Headlining the show is the all-new 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, which was chosen as the official car of SEMA. To celebrate the Camaro’s status, GM is putting together a special one-off concept called the Camaro Black. Of course, the Camaro won’t be the lone Pony Car representative at SEMA — especially this year. Chrysler has tarted-up several new Dodge Challengers, including one with the Viper’s V-10 shoehorned under the hood called the Dodge Challenger SRT10 concept. In addition, a showroom floor full of overhauled Mustangs will also be on display to appease the Blue Oval faithful.

It’s hard to go unnoticed in a 2010 Camaro, but the Camaro Black Concept suggests a stealthy approach to street style. From its matte-black-finished hood and ground effects to its dark wheels and red-glowing HID headlamp halo rings, the Camaro Black Concept is a sinister-looking urban tuner vehicle.

The Camaro Black Concept prowls the streets with the following equipment:

The Camaro Black Concept also features Chevy Accessories’ premium audio upgrade package, along with MTX speakers.

Under the hood is the production 3.6L V-6 that produces 300 horsepower. A Chevy Accessories engine cover provides a suitable accent.

Camaro Dale Earnhardt Jr. ConceptNASCAR star Dale Jr. is fan of vintage Camaros — he cruises around in a Pro Touring-style ’72 Camaro powered by a GM Performance Parts LS crate engine — and the heritage-inspired design of the 2010 Camaro appeals to him like a checkered flag at Daytona. His vision for the car was channeled to GM’s designers and crafted in a multi-color combination of style, capability, and comfort.

They started with a new Camaro SS that uses the standard 6.2L V-8, but modified to use E85. Taking advantage of E85’s favorable octane rating, the engine was calibrated to deliver a few extra horsepower, with the exhaust exiting through GM Performance Parts’ new headers. It’s backed by the SS’s available six-speed manual transmission and GM Accessories’ short-throw Hurst shifter. Additional performance enhancements include a Brembo brake package and a lowered ride height, giving Dale Jr.’s Camaro a sleeker look to match its road-hugging capability.

A custom gray-over-white paint scheme blends the high-performance drivetrain with serious style. It’s accented with an orange stripe separating the gray and white sections. Also generating attention on the exterior is a set of 21-inc., five-spoke wheels inspired by the Camaro Convertible Concept. They feature dark-painted center sections on the spokes that complement the body’s gray color. The wheels are wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero ZR-rated performance tires.

Dale Jr. also specified Chevy Accessories’ upgraded audio system for the Camaro, which is matched with a Boston Acoustics speaker system, including amps and subwoofers.

Camaro GS Racecar ConceptOne of the most iconic cars of the legendary Trans Am road racing series was the distinctive blue-and-yellow Camaro of Mark Donohue. He was a dominant racer in the series and drove his #6 1969 model to the series championship that year.

With the assistance of GM’s High Performance Vehicle Operations, North Carolina-based Riley Technologies re-created the look and feel of that standout race car with a tribute that looks, sounds, and drives like it’s ready to do battle with its contemporary pony car competitors. In fact, the heritage-inspired racer is more than concept. It is an early prototype for the Grand Am Koni Challenge GS racing class. Racecars like the GS Concept are offered and manufactured by Riley Technologies for the 2009 Grand-Am season.

The GS Concept features the race-ready suspension, reinforced chassis, and drivetrain conform to the specifications required of racecars certified for the series. In fact, this race car has already logged many hours on the racetrack as Riley team members worked to dial-in the chassis and powertrain.

Designed to highlight the capability of the new Camaro as a weekend bracket warrior, the Camaro LS7 Concept combines the power of a GM Performance Parts’ LS7 crate engine and targeted bolt-on upgrades to deliver the wheels-up spirit of the legendary COPO Camaros.

Made famous by Chevy dealers like Don Yenko and Fred Gibb in the late 1960s, the COPO cars were ordered for one thing: drag racing. They were quickly outfitted after delivery with the requisite tires, safety equipment, and other accessories necessary for competition in popular Stock-class drag racing series.

The LS7 Concept honors the COPO ethos with features such as drag strip-ready rubber on the rear wheels –and unlike many of the stripped-down racers from 40 years ago, this strip-ready competitor serves double duty as a race car and a daily driver.

The LS7 crate engine (part number 17802397) uses a high-performance replacement camshaft from GM Performance Parts (part number 12480033) to help it produce approximately 550 hp. Complementing upgrades include GM Performance Parts-developed headers and air-intake system that will be offered at the Camaro’s launch in early 2009. The LS7 also is modified with a wet-sump oiling system; the production engine features a dry-sump system that requires an external oil tank.

The Camaro LS7 concept is painted Victory Red, with matte black accents on the hood and taillamp panel. “LS7” logos are strategically placed and warn those in the know this Camaro means business when the Christmas tree lights count down to green. It’s all business on the spartan interior, too, with base trim and few accessories to minimize overall mass for a quicker elapsed time.

Chrysler let SRT engineering loose on a 2009 Challenger, and the result is improvements all around. Under the Shaker hood lurks an 8.4L all-aluminum V-10 sourced from the Dodge Viper, which produces an earth-shaking 600 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. Of course, SRT couldn’t just make the car go fast and leave it at that. They also added big brakes and Bilstein shocks all around, an adjustable front spoiler and a carbon-fiber hood and decklid. Inside, the SRT10 Concept gets sport seats, carbon-fiber trim, and a big, red engine-start button like the Viper’s.

Legendary shifter-maker Hurst has teamed up with Dodge to create a special-edition Hurst/Hemi Challenger for 2009. More than a trim package, Hurst promises the Hurst/Hemi Challenger will lay down at least 500 supercharged horsepower.

“The new Hurst/Hemi Challenger is more than just another musclecar,” says Nate Shelton, chairman of Hurst. “It epitomizes the performance industry’s tradition of taking the best Detroit has to offer and adding 21st-century performance parts to make your ride faster and cooler than the other guy’s. Hurst has a long history of doing just that with guys like Don Garlits, Warren Johnson, Dick Landy, and even celebrity racers Steve McQueen and Jim Garner. The new Hurst/Hemi Challenger is the first of many Hurst Performance Vehicles to come. We are ready to make some more history.”

Details are thin right now, but you’ll definitely get Hurst polished five-spoke wheels and a classic Hurst “pistol grip” shifter.

The Dodge Challenger Blacktop started life as a 2009 Challenger R/T with a 5.7L V-8 and a six-speed manual transmission. The big Hemi now breathes easier thanks to a Mopar cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust, and the Blacktop now rides on a Mopar coil-over suspension with a strut-tower brace for extra rigidity. Putting the power down are massive 22-in. Dodge Viper replica wheels from Factory Reproductions wrapped in 265/35R22 Dunlop rubber up front and 305/30R22 out back. The car also gets a custom front spoiler and a black-on-black paint scheme to complete the look. Inside, it gets bright-red Katzkin leather seats and a Mopar Kicker premium audio system.

The Dodge Challenger Targa, nicknamed “Samantha,” competed in this year’s Targa Newfoundland race. What started as a Mopar Challenger drag race package has become a full-blown road racer with a big engine and custom suspension and brakes. Under the Mopar hood is a 6.4L Hemi crate engine making 540 hp and 490 lb-ft of torque. Power reaches the ground through a Tremec six-speed manual transmission and a 2009 production rearend with revised gear ratios. Hauling it all to a stop are massive brakes from Stop-Tech featuring 15-in. rotors with six-piston calipers up front while four-piston calipers clamp down on 14-in. rotors in the back. Getting the big car around corners is a race suspension, which KW developed along with the brake package, both originally developed for the Dodge Viper ACR. Outside, the car picks up a Mopar front spoiler and Snakeskin Green paint from the Viper, while inside the driver gets a full set of Mopar gauges to keep an eye on the vitals. With a few exceptions, all of the parts on the Targa are available through Mopar.

The Ram TRXtreme is as a trail-ready four-door Ram TRX-4 that’s been lifted and fitted with all kinds of goodies. A Mopar 4.5-in. lift makes room for 20-in. wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich 37-in. tires. The truck picks up Mopar wheel flares, telescoping mirrors, sidesteps, a one-off steel hood with extra vents and a larger grille to improve cooling, as well as box rails, a bed-accessory system, and a true-dual exhaust. Inside, it’s fitted with a Mopar nav system, DVD players in the front-seat headrests, and leather seats by Katzkin. The truck is finished in a two-tone bright yellow and mineral-gray paint scheme to make it look as though it’s already been through the mud.

Mopar Underground also had a go at the Ram R/T. For this street truck, they added a cold-air intake and dual exhaust to the 380-hp Hemi V-8 to help the truck hustle down the road even faster. Its been slammed to the ground via a concept Mopar air suspension and picks up a front spoiler and body kit to round out the look. Up top, the Ram R/T gets a Mopar dual-snorkel aluminum hood with carbon-fiber stripes. In the back it gets a tonneau cover with integrated spoiler, a Mopar bed mat to protect the bed, and an underrail LED lighting system so you can find everything. Inside, this truck gets Mopar leather seats by Katzkin with body-colored stitching to match the dash and steering wheel, as well as pedal covers. Outside, the truck rides on 22-in. Alcoa wheels and is finished in B5 Blue paint.

The Ram Sportsman is designed with the outdoorsman in mind. It’s not as extreme an off-roader as the TRXtreme, but it’s still plenty capable. This truck gets a Mopar 2-in. lift kit so it can ride on polished 20-in. wheels wrapped in 33-in. tires. Mopar Underground also added telescoping tow mirrors, wheel flares, and running boards with an integrated step. The truck features the new RamBox storage system that’s been loaded up with outdoor gear and fitted with a bed rail cargo rack for tying down larger gear. Inside, you’ll be treated to a Mopar navigation system, Sirius Satellite TV and movies playing through the headrest DVD system, leather seats by Katzkin and embroidered with the Sportsman logo, matching steering wheel and door trim, and a Mopar ambient lighting system. The truck features a special “blowing leaves” paint job inspired by traditional camouflage schemes.

Rounding out the group is the Ram Mopar Street Package. This truck is all about ruling the street with its body drop package and its big Alcoa 22-in. wheels. To make the truck look more aggressive than it already does, Mopar Underground added new sill extensions, a front spoiler, an aluminum dual-snorkel hood, and a tonneau cover on the bed. In the back, the bed gets a Mopar bed rug and an underrail LED lighting system, with a dual exhaust system riding underneath. Inside, you’ll be greeted with Mopar suede and leather seats with custom piping and stitching, as well as matching accents on the doors an steering wheel. You’ll stay entertained with a DVD headrest system and a Mopar Kicker premium audio system.

Designed to be the ultimate tool for contractors, DeWalt’s director of business development Jennifer Ervin says for its concept F-150 the company “thought how a contractor uses his or her truck on the job” and worked to add every conceivable application to turn it into a rolling workshop. These include Ford‘s new Work Solutions software with DeWalt’s Tool Link, which helps ensure all necessary tools for a job are loaded before departure, a built-in charger for battery powered equipment, and special storage compartments, among others. To carry around all that extra weight the powertrain has also been modified for improved performance and efficiency.

“Fahrenheit F-150” FX-4 by X-Treme Toyz

As opposed to a work truck, X-Treme Toyz set out build an ideal F-150 for weekend warriors, upping its capability for campers, bikers, and off-road enthusiasts. Adding extras like 9000-lb winches hidden behind each license plate at the front and rear, a bike rack across the top rail, and a Bedslide sliding cargo drawer that holds a tool box, tire, and compressor, X-Treme Toyz owner Mike Duval says “you can basically put all of your toys in the truck, hook up the trailer and go.” And to make sure you go in style, he also added distinctive “hot flame” exterior graphics to each side.

F-150 by Street Scene Equipment

Starting with a top-line F-150 Lariat Supercrew, Street Scene takes the Blue Oval’s full-size and gives it the slammed treatment by lowering it, adding a body kit, wheels, a mesh grille, lower air intake, and two-tone paint for the complete SEMA-friendly look. Street Scene has been building custom trucks for years, and with a host of visual, performance, and luxury upgrades, its F-150 Lariat is created “for those who don’t believe in compromises.”Hi–Pa Drive F-150 concept

Hi-Pa Drive F-150

Of course a no compromises, tuner full-size truck might not be so popular if gas returns to $4 a gallon, but not to worry — Ford has that scenario covered with the new Hi-Pa Drive F-150. Featuring a unique alternative powertrain, the stock truck’s engine, drivetrain, and transmission have all been replaced by four in-wheel electric motors that together reportedly deliver over 600 hp and more torque than the V-8 mill found on regular F-150s. Besides offering gas and emissions-free driving, moving the truck’s propulsion to the wheels also opens up more space, allowing for new storage and design solutions.

The rap about “street trucks” like Dodge’s Ram SRT-10, Chevy’s Silverado SS and Ford’s own F-150 SVT Lightning is that they handled and performed well…for trucks.

In designing a performance version of Ford’s iconic pickup, Special Vehicle Teams chose a different direction for the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor. Widen the body of a Supercrew, redo front and rear suspensions, tweak the four-wheel-drive calibration and make it an off-road capable pre-runner.

The Raptor also gets a new truck engine, a 6.2L, two-valve (for better torque characteristics than multivalvers) overhead-cam V-8. Tuning isn’t final, but SVT says the oversquare engine will be rated about 400 hp and about 400 lb-ft of torque. The engine was an on-again, off-again project known as the Hurricane V-8. Its official name is simply “6.2,” and Ford will not use it in any other F-150s, so it’s mainly a Super Duty truck engine that might also be used in whatever is left of the Expedition and Lincoln Navigator lines.

Much engineering and effort went into creating the custom Civic and according to Honda, will serve as a basis for further development of accessories for the ride. With the help of renowned Japanese racing legend Keiichi Tsuchiya (known by many as the father of modern drifting), Honda was able to improve the performance and fuel efficiency of the car through a variety of prototype parts. Exterior bodykit appointments took much inspiration from the Japanese-spec Type-R Civic. A lighter exhaust, lower suspension, and lighter wheels conspire to give the car a slimmer build for more miles per gallon.

Well known Japanese tuner Mugen has partnered once again with Honda to design a lineup of dealer-available accessories for the all-new Fit. Included in the new package are 16-in. wheels, aluminum oil cap, sport grille, a complete bodykit and sport exhaust. Inside the Mugenized city car, customers will be able to select from branded floormats and pedals to shift knobs and mirror covers.

To give a bit more performance to the fuel miser, additional speed-oriented parts are expected in the coming months. All components will be available at authorized Honda dealers and can be purchased as a complete package or individual parts.

This biggest Honda around sports genuine accessories currently available to consumers. Designers built the truck to showcase the cargo and off-road capabilities the Ridgeline possesses. Honda combined the concept with the brand’s latest off-road motorcycle and emphasized its ability to be used as the ultimate hauler for weekend toys. Included on the Ridgeline Powersports is a bed extender, new grille and 18-in. alloys. All components are available at authorized Honda dealers.

While GM tries to find a buyer for its ailing SUV brand, Hummer is bringing a trio of concepts to SEMA based on its new V-8 powered H3 Alpha and HT3 Alpha models. First, based on the H3T Alpha, is the Weekend Warrior concept. It includes several GM Performance parts that give its 5.3L, 300-hp V-8 an additional 70 hp including LS2 cylinder heads, a higher-lift camshaft, and a 3.5-in. exhaust system. For truly Baja-worthy handling, the Weekend Warrior also receives several suspension components including as Light Racing JounceShocks, high-performance brakes from DBA, and 35-in.-tall tires on special matte-black 20-in. wheels from Hummer’s own accessory catalog. Since no SEMA showcar is complete without a major dose of bling, the H3T Weekend Warrior comes with custom Baja Orange Metallic paint, a body-color upper grille, and custom hood graphics. In addition, the lower grille, side mirrors, door handles, and fuel door all sport a satin-metal finish, and off-road lamps are mounted on the grille and roof. Most of these upgrades are standard Hummer accessories; however, the black-leather-trimmed cabin with orange stitching and carbon-fiber instrument panel accents are not.

The second concept, the H3 X Concept, is described by Hummer as “a proposal for the ultimate H3 X,” taking a standard off-road oriented H3 X Alpha and sprucing it up with unique 18-in. wheels and 35-in.-tall tires, black chrome finish on its shiny bits (similar to the recent Black Chrome Edition H2), and body-color rear bumper extensions. Inside, the H3 X Concept includes black leather trim with orange stitching on the armrests and shift knob, along with custom floormats and a Hummer accessory headrest DVD entertainment system. Power remains unchanged, but the showcar sports Canyon Metallic paint from PPG.

The third — and final — hauler to grace Hummer’s SEMA stand is another H3 Alpha, this one developed by the staff of Four Wheeler magazine. Dubbed Project Trailhugger, this H3 is modified for increased off-road capability while maintaining reasonable comfort and fuel economy and features a raft of hard-core accessories, including nitrogen-charged Rod Hall Racing piggyback reservoir-type performance shocks, flat-black GT Simulock 16-in. wheels, a remote perimeter lighting system, and a winch. For a unique appearance, the Trailhugger is also “de-glossed,” meaning the H3’s chrome trim is painted flat black and its paint is modified with a special flattening agent.

The RMR Genesis Coupe concept’s engine is the base 2.0L turbocharged inline-four and plenty of modifications were done with the intention of showing tuners the coupe’s aftermarket possibilities. Hyundai hopes the modifications will turn the Genesis coupe into a race car ready to run in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, Formula D, or Redline Time Attack series.

RMR has apparently stuffed the concept Genesis with too many upgrades to list, but a turbo kit, HKS sequential transmission, Brembo brakes and a K&W coil over suspension all help to amp up the car’s performance potential.

In addition, Hyundai says the RMR Genesis Coupe concept is “moving art,” and while we wouldn’t take it that far, we will say the concept adds aesthetically to an already attractive Hyundai effort. The silver and black Millen-tuned Hyundai gets an RMR wide body kit, a functional hood scoop, and huge carbon fiber wing. Enkei racing wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE-01 rubber certainly enhance the concept.

In addition to the hot RMR Hyundai Genesis Coupe, two more versions of the the upcoming two-door coupe will be making an appearance at SEMA. The first, created by Street Concepts, wears an aggressive stealth-fighter-inspired black camouflage paint scheme. Added to the exterior mix are a custom grille with red Hyundai badging, tinted head- and taillights, and an APR rear spoiler. Planting all four corners on the tarmac is a set of 19-in. matte-black Volk Racing TE 37 wheels wrapped in low-profile tires. A lowered, stiffer suspension setup not only aids in achieving its menacing stealth-fighter look, but also helps out with eliminating pesky body roll. Brembo was called upon to provide its massive front and rear braking systems behind the forged-aluminum wheels.

Street Concepts didn’t set out to create a Genesis Coupe with all show and no go for SEMA, so a Magnaflow exhaust and high-flow air-intake are neatly installed under its hood to allow for a bit more horsepower from the 3.8L V-6. Inside the cabin, carbon fiber replaces the factory dash, as do high-quality suede inserts. A set of Cobra racing seats and a full Infinity audio system round off the car’s interior enhancements.

The second Genesis Coupe was tuned by HKS with extra performance in mind. Though no power numbers have been announced, the laundry-list of performance parts has. The HKS Genesis will get unspecified HKS internal engine parts, an HKS GT Turbo kit, an HKS limited-edition turbo exhaust system, an HKS Super Mega Flow intake system, HKS engine management and an HKS Hipermax III fully adjustable suspension. Hyundai and HKS did not specify whether it was the base 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the 3.8L V6 that was modified, but either way, expect big power bumps from the stock 212 hp or 306 hp, respectively.

HKS Time-Attack cars’ aerodynamics partner Ken Style also got in on the mods, creating a functional ground effects kit. Inside, the car will feature HKS electronics and a CAMP2 system that plugs into the car’s OBD2 port and monitors up to 24 different data signals.

All-out performance isn’t the RIDES Genesis’ forte, but it does have some unique appearance upgrades to set it apart from the run-of-the-mill Genesis. Clad in a completely custom body kit, the Genesis sedan rolls on gigantic 22-in. MHT three-piece wheels wrapped in Pirelli rubber. Adding a bit street cred are a lower, stiffer stance and a meaner-sounding bespoke exhaust.

What’s inside though, is where this Genesis really shines. It’s almost as if Apple’s whole catalog were thrown into the cabin, as each passenger receives his own MacBook laptop or MacMini computer set in OEM-like consoles. To boot, each passenger gets iPod Touch and iPhone connectivity as well as high-speed Wi-Fi for his surfing needs. The stock Hyundai multimedia system (which in its own right is very good) has been replaced by a full surround sound system complete with a 20-in. display in the ceiling and a set of 8.4-in. VGA screens embedded in the front seats.

On the other hand, RKSport owner Bob Smith says the tuner plans “on maximizing the performance abilities of the Genesis,” and with this in mind the special car will feature extras like a K&N performance air intake and Magnaflow performance exhaust. To move away from the Hyundai’s plush, luxury car roots, a Baer performance brake package and Eibach lowering springs are being added as well.

Of course given that RKSport aims to make its creation a “must-see car at this year’s SEMA show,” the special Genesis is receiving a few styling changes to make it stand out. Besides being lowered, the tuned sedan will include a body kit with unique front and rear lower fascias and side skirts, a composite hood, composite rear roof spoiler, and trunk spoiler. TSW is providing special alloy wheels, and a new Platinum Silver color is designed to highlight the visual changes.

In addition to these aftermarket upgrades Hyundai is planning a little something extra under the hood for its RKSport Genesis as well. Hyundai’s engineering team in Michigan is working to create a never-before-seen “enhanced version” of the Genesis sedan’s 4.6L Tau V-8 powerplant that should sport even better performance.

Take a look at the Stillen 2009 Infiniti G37 and 2009 Infiniti G37 Sport Sedan 6MT, two of the cars at the 2008 SEMA auto show, brought to you by the automotive experts at Motor Trend.

Take a look at the Westside Group 2009 Infiniti EX, ShowOpt 2009 Infiniti M35X, and RCH Designs 2009 Infiniti QX56, some of the cars at the 2008 SEMA auto show, brought to you by the automotive experts at Motor Trend.

Following its stunning debut in 2007, the Five Axis Project IS F went back to the shop for another makeover, this time in the engine compartment. With 416 hp on tap right out of the box, the standard IS F is no slouch. But the Project IS F concept brief included exploring the performance potential of its direct-injected 5.0L V-8, so it now sports 5.8L while receiving ported and flowed cylinder heads, a new exhaust system and changes to the electronic controls. The upshot is enough power and torque to put an evil grin on even the most jaded enthusiast’s face.

According to Import Tuners‘ blog, this Lexus IS F is being built with full-track-attack duty in mind. From what we can muster from their editors, the car will sport a custom aerodynamic kit specified for track use that should also look pretty mean on the SEMA show floor.

Filling out the wheel wells will be lightweight RE-30 model forged alloys courtesy of famed motorsport company Volk Racing. Upgraded brakes and stickier rubber, as well as a race-ready interior setup are also on the list of IT’s/Tein’s must-have parts for the special IS F. As for engine enhancements, nothing has been revealed thus far, but we’re expecting a power bump from the 416 hp the IS F’s 5.0L V-8 puts out in stock trim.

IS F by Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance

Fox Marketing and Artisan Performance teamed to create this subtle yet aggressive makeover of the already aggressive IS F. The subtle part involves the numerous bodywork changes, which enhance rather than rethink the lines of the IS F, making it look even more muscular in the process. “Aggressive” can be applied to the engine which gets the full twin-turbo treatment. Fox expects the changes will yield something north of 600 hp.

IS F by 0-60 Magazine

With track performance a common theme among IS F builders, 0-60 Magazine ups the ante on its IS F project with a supercharger to tease out another load of horses from the big V-8. Carbon-fiber body components reduce weight while lowering the center of gravity and a custom rollcage adds stiffness and protection. A beefy brake upgrade kit with 14.6-in. front and 14.0-in. rear rotors with four-piston monoblock calipers and performance pads was added to balance the performance equation.

IS F by MotorworldHype.com

MotorworldHype has taken another path that is a bit less aggressive, yet more easily accessible for the average consumer. Lots of carbon to reduce some unwanted mass and a well-rounded package of suspension, brake, engine and cosmetic changes provide sharper responses in all directions.

Project GS by Five Axis

After wowing the SEMA Show crowd in 2007 with the amazing Project IS F, Troy Sumitomo makes a return engagement, this time with a fresh take on the Lexus GS 460. Sumitomo brings the considerable expertise of his Five Axis automotive design company to bear on this exciting GS concept.

The IS is Lexus’ entry point into the luxury sport-sedan arena. It’s a tuner-friendly and robust platform that responds extremely well to performance upgrades. This IS 350 is fully loaded with all the offerings from the F-Sport performance accessory catalog. It also sports a new concept ground-effects body kit designed to complement the increased performance and aggressive stance provided by the F-Sport components.

Cosmetic modifications to the I3 350 F-Sport include a Four-piece ground-effects body kit and grille by Five Axis, Lexus Genuine Accessory rear spoiler, and PPG Vibrance Orange Glow 3-stage paint with satin accents on the outside, custom leather interior appointments by Five Axis and Turinmodel, Inc. and F-Sport floor mats inside. Under the hood, the car receives an F-Sport Performance Air Intake with an F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover. Rounding out engine modifications is an F-Sport Performance Exhaust. Suspension upgrades consist of bilstein shocks, lowering springs, anti-roll bars and an under chassis brace. Brakes get upgraded as well, with the same 14.0-in. front and 13.6-in. rear rotors with six/four-piston fixed calipers as on the Five Axis GS 460. Lastly, the car is fitted with 19-in. F-Sport aluminum wheels wearing Yokohama Advan Sport high-performance rubber.

LX 570 by ICON 4×4 Design

ICON specializes in 4x4s that are typically off-road oriented. But they envisioned something different for the plush yet rugged LX 570. Their approach here is to give the LX a clean and stealthy appearance through clever use of colors and trim, then top with performance improvements to further enhance the appeal of Lexus’ premier luxury utility vehicle.

The largely cosmetic modifications to the LX 570 consist of matte two-tone gray paint, black chrome trim and emblems, and the removal of side trim and the roof rack on the outside, the replacement of all wood panels with carbon fiber surface effect coatings and the addition of window tint inside, a custom intake and stainless exhaust, custom 24-in. MOZ Calgary wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico tires, and six-piston front/four-piston rear performance brake system.

Find out more about the Lincoln MKS Concepts created by 3dCarbon, Godfather Customs and RKSport from the automotive experts at Motor Trend.

The Mercedes-Benz GLK-class is just about on sale and the German luxury automaker is bringing four concept variants of its new ‘ute to the SEMA show. First up is a GLK modified by famous tuner Brabus. Called the Widestar, it started life as a GLK300 BlueTec and now sports a widebody kit with a redesigned front and rear and big fender flares to reign in the custom Brabus wheels. It also features a special edition interior from Brabus.

Second is the RENNtech Rally Racer. It was inspired by cars that tackle the Pike’s Peak hill climb in the unlimited class. This GLK is fitted with RENNtech’s first hybrid powertrain to improve acceleration off the line and exiting corners.

Third, a GLK by Boulevard Customs. This shop decided to turn their vehicle into a street machine, giving it a widebody kit hanging over massive 26-in. wheels. Inside the Urban Whip, passengers are treated to a custom interior and a hugely powerful sound system.

Last, the Legendary Motorcars Company has gone the opposite way with their GLK, instead creating an off-roader called the Four Corners Rock Crawler. The vehicle features a unique winching system for bringing skateboarders and wakeboarders up to speed so that they can grind down the vehicle’s special side rails.

Take a look at the Infiniti G35 by Nick Ashby and Stillen and “Hot Rod Hybrid” Nissan Altima Hybrid, two of the cars you’ll see at the 2008 SEMA auto show, brought to you by the automotive experts at Motor Trend.

Built in conjunction with renowned performance parts distributor Bulletproof Automotive, the GT-RR.com 2009 Nissan GT-R features a lower, more aggressive stance thanks to a revised coilover suspension. Adding to meaner, track-inspired look is a full carbon-fiber aerodynamic kit and a set of limited-edition, 20-in. BBS LM-DBK-P wheels shod in 285/35ZR20 front and 315/30ZR20 rear Toyo R888 semi-slick rubber. Sitting behind the rare rolling stock are massive Endless monoblock six-piston front and rear brakes. Famed Japanese tuner Powerhouse Amuse provided its Super Tough Titanium (STT) exhaust for a bit more power and a definite tonal improvement.

While no one has seen the car in person yet, SLP released an official brochure for the G8 Firehawk, which tells us there will be several versions of the revered nameplate. SLP plans to upgrade every engine the G8 comes with, from the base V-6 to the top V-8. The company will also be offering a special SC supercharged model. No more details have been released yet, but SLP director of marketing David Hamburger has told LS1tech.com the car was meant to be unveiled at SEMA before GM asked it to announce the project at Indy Bash. SLP will also be setting up a Web site dedicated to the G8 Firehawk in the coming weeks.

The Pontiac G8 GXP Street concept takes Pontiac’s soon-to-arrive 2009 G8 GXP production car to the proverbial next level thanks in large part to the addition of GM’s outrageous new LSX454 crate engine. The LSX454 is the most notable bolt on to the G8 GXP Street, and is one of many parts and accessories that will be available shortly from GM’s Accessories and GM Performance Parts catalogs. Other parts on the vehicle aren’t yet offered by GM but they may be in the near future.

The G8 GXP is already plenty formidable, with a 6.2L V-8 rated at 415 hp under the hood. The LSX454 dwarfs those numbers, with the massive 7.4L block outputting a Corvette ZR1-matching 638 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to GM’s Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.

In an effort to further improve handling, Pontiac says the G8 GXP Street’s ride height has been lowered, and stiffer springs added. Brakes are borrowed from the Cadillac CTS-V, but the GXP Street’s red-painted calipers are adorned with milled GXP logos.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a SEMA car without an extreme body kit and GXP Street doesn’t disappoint, with a custom front and rear fascia kit. Out front, a rectangular lower grille with a black chrome finish dominates. The car’s chunky 20-in. five-spoke rims are also finished in black chrome, as is the rest of the car’s exterior brightwork. At the back, a race-style diffuser and custom aluminum exhaust tips finish off the performance exhaust system.

Inside, the cabin features seats with GXP embroidery as well as a unique gauge cluster, and the car’s black chrome theme is carried over in various trim pieces.

G8 ST concept

The 2010 Pontiac G8 ST is headed to dealerships late next year, and the G8 ST concept for SEMA is adorned with several parts that will likely be offered for the car by GM Accessories. The SEMA ST has the same 361-hp 6.0L V-8 of the production car mated to a six-speed automatic.

Here are highlights of the G8 ST concept from Pontiac:

Liquid Hot exterior color with enhanced clear coat

Lowered ride height

Custom 20-inch wheels

Leather-trimmed seats with red inserts

G8 GXP steering wheel with red inserts

G8 GXP shift knob with red inserts

Custom interior trim kit (proposed GM Accessories part)

Hard tonneau cover (proposed GM Accessories part)

Solstice GXP Coupe concept

The hardtop version of the Pontiac Solstice is due next year, and the GXP Coupe for SEMA is equipped with GM Performance Parts’ Stage 2 performance kit and performance air intake kit, which boosts the Solstice GXP’s 260-hp, turbocharged 2.0L engine to around 290 hp. The car also features a GM Performance Parts cat-back exhaust and a sports suspension kit.

The exterior is painted Olympic White liver with a Hydro Blue racing stripe that may be eventually offered from GM, along with polished factory wheels. Inside, the SEMA Solstice features blue accent stitching, unique pedal covers and an iPod interface.

Much like EV builder Tesla, Ronn Motors says it believes in joining “performance with eco-responsible alternative power systems,” and started out by designing a sports car with high-speed credentials that wouldn’t disappoint enthusiasts. Featuring a lightweight carbon fiber body (built by Metalcrafters) the Scorpion uses a mid-mounted Acura 3.5L V-6 from the TL Type-S, twin-turbocharged for over 450 hp. With a six-speed manual, limited-slip differential and 12-in. brakes, on paper the Scorpion is more than capable of harnessing that power, while grip is maintained with Toyo Proxie Ultra High Performance T1R tires on 20-in., two-piece forged Modena wheels by MOZ (9 in. wide up front, 11 in. rear). Though Ronn isn’t releasing performance numbers for its creation, given this set up most likely they’ll be impressive.

Of course, buyers in the market for a handbuilt, low volume supercar already have plenty of good options to choose from. What makes the Scorpion unique, however, is a hydrogen fuel-injection (HFI) fuel-delivery system developed specially by Ronn Motor. By mixing 30-40% hydrogen into the car’s air/fuel mixture, the V-6 manages 20-40% better fuel-economy than when running strictly on gasoline, and CO2 emissions are also greatly reduced. But more important, unlike normal fuel-cell vehicles that require access to hydrogen refueling stations, Ronn’s HFI system actually produces all the hydro it needs on board — using power from a battery to produce hydrogen through water electrolysis (the H2O is stored in a small tank), a dual computer processor then controls how much of the fuel is inducted through the air intake manifold and blended with the car’s gasoline supply. No high-pressure hydrogen storage tank is required, and owners only need to refuel the Scorpion with normal gas.

In addition to its Nissan GT-R, Toyo Tires is bringing a classic 1931 Studebaker Model 54 sedan that’s been chopped, dropped and then lowered a bit more. This road-scrapping ride was built by Frenso, California fabricator Choppin’ Block and features an all-new frame, a chopped roof and a revised hood capable of housing the massive Chevrolet 350 engine. An airbag suspension helps to lower and raise the car on a whim, while 18- and 20-in. Centerline Smoothie wheels wrapped in Proxes 4 tires add to the car’s flare.

For this year’s Art Cars, Scion asked three designers to each customize an xB around a theme of their choosing. Washington designer Blaine Fontana chose an atypical-for-Scion theme and created an outdoors xB similar in style to camper vans. With a tent on the roof and a kitchen inside, his xB is ready to rough it with its big off-road tires. Los Angeles designer Kenton Parker went in the opposite direction with his xB, creating a miniaturized replica of the “roach coach” catering trucks often found near construction sites. Also from Southern California, designer Jeff Soto decided to turn his xB into a Bonneville Salt Flats racer. With a chopped roof, big wing and solid, brushed-aluminum hubcaps, it certainly looks the part, and the TRD supercharger under the hood should give it the extra power to complete the illusion.

For the Scion Tuner Challenge, three well-known speed shops were given a tC and a limited budget and told to trick out the cars however they wanted. They will be judged by the National Custom Car Association and a winner will be declared at SEMA. Fast Eddies Garage in Los Angeles went retro, building the “Neu-Vintage” tC that borrows styling cues from 1930s cars, World War II airplanes and some modern touches. The bare-metal body is covered in rivets and the aircraft theme is carried over inside as well. Under the hood is a race-prepped motor and race-ready suspension. Mark Arcenal and his crew at Fatlace have styled their tC after the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters racing series cars. They’ve pulled out the fenders and squared-off the rear end and set up the car to echo the look of the touring car series. Rounding out the competition is John Pangilinan, a long-time Scion owner and customizer. His “Revault tC” sports a custom wide-body kit and an extravagant entertainment system.

Joining the three Art Cars xBs and three Tuner Challenge tCs on Scion’s stand is a custom xD from Drag Cartel, a Scion customizing shop. The “Ruthless Cartel” xD has been turned into a two-door, had its roof chopped, wears a body kit, and rides on an air suspension and 100-spoke wire wheels.

The Subaru Forester crossover isn’t exactly a hard-core rock crawler, and despite offering a 2.5XT model with 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, its 7.2-sec 0-60 mph time won’t win any drag races, either. So for this year’s SEMA show, the automaker is addressing these concerns with a new Mountain Rescue Vehicle, as well as a screaming fast, STI-influenced concept for soccer moms who have motor oil in their veins — the Forester XTI.

Based on the 2.5XT turbo, Subaru’s Forester Mountain Rescue Vehicle concept is meant for use by the Ski Patrol, and includes a host of rugged upgrades to help it storm snow banks and aid stranded vacationers who accidentally went for triple black diamond instead of the bunny hill. A full 14-in. of ground clearance (up from the stock Forester’s 8.9-in.) is available through an Air Lift adjustable suspension, special Yokohama Geolander tires and 15-in. custom-reversed near-zero offset steel wheels aid traction, front and rear skid plates protect the undercarriage, and an emergency light package helps the vehicle stand out in a blizzard. In addition, the CUV sports extra body shielding, including fender flares and lower door cladding, as well as rescue equipment like a toboggan and 9500-lb winch.

For the XTI concept Subaru is giving its modest family hauler the full STI treatment, starting with the addition of a JDM body kit that includes side skirts, a rear skirt and gate spoiler, along with a mesh grille from the automaker’s accessory catalog. New 18-in. forged alloy wheels wear Yokohama Advan performance tires, an adjustable coil-over suspension helps hug the road, and Brembo brakes with four-piston front calipers (and two-piston rear calipers) are borrowed straight from the Impreza WRX STI to help harness the XTI’s added power.

To aid in showing other CUVs its taillights, the XTI includes the entire engine and drivetrain from the WRX STI along with added go-fast goodies like a custom stainless steel cat-back exhaust system, upping the output of the 2.5L turbo four to 315 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The standard Forester transmission is replaced by a close-ratio six-speed manual, and the Driver Controlled Center Differential system offers three performance modes and six manual center differential-locking settings. Inside, the XTI adds leather and Alcantara sport seats along with a new instrument cluster, dashboard, and leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more businesslike feel.

Presently Subaru isn’t releasing specific performance numbers for its XTI Concept, but the automaker claims that it can hit the 60 mph mark in under five seconds.

Toyota is bringing a pair of customized variants of its new Venza crossover to this year’s SEMA show. First up is the Venza AS V (for Active-Sports Versatility) built by longtime partner Five Axis. The model is said to portray the car’s overall versatility and will incorporate an innovative Integrated Cargo Carrier (ICC) by Magna Car Top Systems. Once pulled from the rear bumper of the car, the rack can easily store all types of winter sports equipment such as skis, snowboards and bikes. For added looks, the car will sport more aggressive bodywork with bulging over fenders capable of housing the wider 20 x 10.5-in. wheels and tires.

The second, more tuner aligned version called the SportLux Venza is aimed at incorporating the “the feel of a refined sports car while retaining Venza’s utility and functionality.” Undertaking the daunting task is notable show car builder Street Images, which will first install a bespoke body kit with reworked front, rear and side elements. Bigger and wider wheels (by the looks of them are 22-in.diameter) will fill the wheel wells, while larger brakes and a lowered suspension will also aid in revealing the Venza’s deep seeded sports car traits. Inside the car will be a black and burgundy trimmed cabin filled with high quality leather. A complete infotainment system finds its way inside the SportLux Venza as well.

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